India’s foreign ministry on 8 December demanded assurances that Indians transiting Chinese airports will not face arbitrary detention after a UK-based Indian national was held for 18 hours at Shanghai Pudong on 21 November . Officials said border staff deemed her passport “invalid” because she was born in Arunachal Pradesh—territory China claims as Zangnan.
The incident prompted a formal protest and fresh travel-caution advice for Indian citizens routing through China. Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal told reporters that such actions “hamper efforts to rebuild bilateral ties” and urged Beijing to respect international transit norms. China has not commented publicly beyond saying airport checks follow domestic law.
![New Delhi seeks Beijing’s guarantee after Indian passenger detained at Shanghai transit]()
Mobility practitioners note that selective scrutiny at transit points poses reputational risk for airlines and travel managers. Indian companies with China itineraries are reviewing routings via Hong Kong, Bangkok or Singapore until clearer guidelines emerge.
The episode comes amid a cautious détente: Prime Minister Modi visited China in August and tourist visas for Chinese nationals to India resumed in November. Analysts warn that unless frontline border practices align with diplomatic overtures, corporate confidence will remain fragile.
Organisations should brief Indian passport holders—especially those born in contested regions—on potential questioning and ensure contact numbers for consular assistance are on file.
The incident prompted a formal protest and fresh travel-caution advice for Indian citizens routing through China. Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal told reporters that such actions “hamper efforts to rebuild bilateral ties” and urged Beijing to respect international transit norms. China has not commented publicly beyond saying airport checks follow domestic law.
Mobility practitioners note that selective scrutiny at transit points poses reputational risk for airlines and travel managers. Indian companies with China itineraries are reviewing routings via Hong Kong, Bangkok or Singapore until clearer guidelines emerge.
The episode comes amid a cautious détente: Prime Minister Modi visited China in August and tourist visas for Chinese nationals to India resumed in November. Analysts warn that unless frontline border practices align with diplomatic overtures, corporate confidence will remain fragile.
Organisations should brief Indian passport holders—especially those born in contested regions—on potential questioning and ensure contact numbers for consular assistance are on file.
